Metro Hotel is a sleek property that sits on a busy intersection. It's not the prettiest location, but guests are mainly here for the convenience to the airport. The lobby and hallways are smart, with soothing pale gray decor. Opening off the lobby, a well-liked bar/restaurant continues this style, adding a few touches of subtle color. The pleasingly curved wall of windows is reminiscent of an airport lounge, and guests relax on sofas, tables, and bar stools. The hotel is visited by a mix of people, but most are only staying for one night. 

Metro Hotel is in the Ballymun area of Dublin, 10 minutes by car -- or shuttle bus -- from the airport. There's not a lot in the immediate area, as the hotel sits on a busy highway intersection, surrounded by residential blocks. However, there is a supermarket across the street and a few fast-food outlets nearby. IKEA is also only a five-minute walk away. Budget about a 20-minute drive into the city center for attractions like the Guinness Storehouse and Dublin Castle, plus Temple Bar shopping and nightlife. There are several buses that run into town, with stops on Ballymun Road and Santry Road -- both a five-minute walk away. 

There are two types of decor in the rooms at Metro Hotel. Some have an elegant style in line with the rest of the hotel, including gray tones, glass-topped wood furniture, and pops of deep purple in the curtains and cushions. Others -- especially the larger Suites and Studio Rooms -- are a a bit homier, with rust-colored carpets, and sandy colored sofas. Standard Double and Triple Rooms have walk-in wardrobes. Studio Rooms and Suites add living areas and kitchenettes with fridges, microwaves, toasters, and sinks. Suites have separate bedrooms. Standard amenities across all configurations include flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, electric kettles, safes, and irons. Unfortunately there is no air-conditioning, which is frustrating as sleeping with the windows open means loud traffic noise all night. Bathrooms are smart, with gray and white tiling, shower/tub combos, and pump-dispensed toiletries. Counter space can be limited.

Metro Hotel has a bright bistro restaurant that's well-liked by most previous guests. Meals are served all day, including a breakfast buffet with hot and cold options. Drinks are also available. There's an underground parking garage, and the hotel provide a park-and-fly service. A shuttle bus runs to and from the airport throughout the day. Unfortunately, the hotel charges a fee for round-trip service, though pick-ups at the airport are free. There are three well-equipped meeting rooms, and Wi-Fi is free, but the hotel lacks a fitness room.